When you walk through the hallowed halls of the Massachusetts State House, where contemporary portraits are now on display, you’re typically greeted by centuries-old portraits of historical figures. But this summer, something revolutionary is happening in the Senate Lobby—contemporary artists are quite literally looking back at you.
The Essex Art Center’s groundbreaking exhibition, “Looking back at you…”, transforms the traditional portrait gallery experience into a robust dialogue about representation, identity, and who belongs in our political spaces. Running from August 15, 2025, to an unspecified date, this free exhibition invites visitors to see themselves reflected in art that speaks to our present moment.
A Bold Conversation Between Past and Present
The exhibition takes its inspiration from an unlikely source: Abigail Adams. Her portrait has long held court in the Senate Lobby, representing a particular vision of American history. But what happens when contemporary artists—many from communities historically excluded from these spaces—add their voices to the conversation?
“Looking back at you…” doesn’t shy away from this question. Instead, it embraces the tension between classical portraiture and modern interpretations, creating a visual dialogue that challenges viewers to reconsider who deserves representation in our most important civic spaces.
Meet the Artists Reshaping Representation
The exhibition showcases eight talented artists with deep connections to Massachusetts’ First Essex district, including Lawrence, Methuen, and Haverhill. Each brings a unique perspective to the age-old art of portraiture:
Kate Delaney, an illustrator and muralist whose work spans the globe, captures subjects with her distinctive watercolor-on-paper technique. Lawrence residents know her vibrant public art well—she’s creating a large-scale mural for Essex Art Center’s building facade this summer.
Eric Allshouse brings 15 years of experience as a Lawrence High School art teacher to his practice. His leadership of Essex Art Center’s summer mural program resulted in 14 public artworks throughout the city, created in collaboration with local youth.
Adrianna De la Rosa, a Dominican-American artist currently studying at the University of San Francisco, explores identity through vibrant, juxtaposed visuals that reflect her upbringing between the Dominican Republic and Lawrence.
Gwendolyn Lanier, now the Ceramics Studio Manager at the Essex Art Center, grew up attending classes at the center. Her artwork explores the human figure and our connection to the spiritual realm.
Erick Maldonado uses acrylic, oil, and mixed media to explore themes of family, Black gay culture, interpersonal relationships, and Dominican folklore, bringing underrepresented narratives to the forefront.
Zeedrah Morezguiland, at just 15 years old, represents the next generation of Lawrence artists. Through Essex Art Center’s programs, she’s already contributed to several public art projects throughout the city.
Kat Almonte and Mahli Rivera, founders of Grainy Daze Studios in Lawrence, collaborate to create authentic photographic portraits that capture the true essence of their community members.
More Than Just Portraits: An Interactive Experience
The exhibition goes beyond traditional wall-mounted artwork. Visitors encounter a permanent installation of gilded mirrors strategically placed throughout the space. These mirrors serve a dual purpose—they reflect viewers while metaphorically challenging them to consider their role in shaping the political landscape.
This interactive element transforms passive viewing into active participation. As you move through the Senate Lobby, you become part of the exhibition, your reflection mingling with the contemporary portraits and historical artwork. It’s a powerful reminder that democracy requires all of us to show up and be seen.
Why This Exhibition Matters Now
In an era of heated debates about representation and inclusion, “Looking back at you…” offers a nuanced approach to these conversations. Rather than erasing history, it adds new chapters. The portraits highlight individuals from communities of color, reflecting the true diversity of the Commonwealth—a diversity often absent from the State House’s permanent collection.
The exhibition’s location in the Senate Lobby is particularly significant. This is where laws are debated and decisions are made that affect all residents of Massachusetts. By introducing contemporary faces and perspectives into this space, Essex Art Center reminds us that the “global majority is watching and actively engaging in the political landscape that shapes their lives.”
Plan Your Visit
The exhibition runs through August 15, 2025, and is free and open to the public during the Senate’s off-session hours:
- Monday through Friday: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Location: Senate Lobby, Massachusetts State House, 24 Beacon Street, Boston, MA
Special thanks go to Senator Payano and his team for championing this innovative partnership between Essex Art Center and the State House.
Beyond the Exhibition: Join the Creative Community
Essex Art Center’s mission extends far beyond this single exhibition. Since 1993, the nonprofit has offered fine arts education, community outreach, and contemporary art exhibitions in Lawrence. Their ambitious curatorial vision positions art as a connector—a platform for communication about issues that matter.
Interested in creating your own art? Essex Art Center offers summer classes for all ages and skill levels. Visit www.essexartcenter.org/enroll to explore opportunities. Contemporary portraits Massachusetts State House
The Power of Looking—and Being Seen
“Looking back at you…” does more than showcase talented artists. It asks fundamental questions about representation, power, and belonging. Who gets to be immortalized in our civic spaces? Whose stories deserve telling? And perhaps most importantly—what happens when we truly see each other?
As you stand in the Senate Lobby, surrounded by portraits old and new, catching glimpses of yourself in gilded mirrors, you become part of the answer. Democracy thrives when all voices are heard and all faces are seen. This exhibition reminds us that representation isn’t just about the past—it’s about actively shaping our collective future.
For more information about Essex Art Center and upcoming exhibitions, contact Executive Director Monica Manoski at Monica@essexartcenter.org or follow @essexartcenter on social media.
